The road from Agiassos to Kalantos is not a Sunday drive
A minor road from Agiassos to Kalantos is a very exciting coastline journey at the southernmost part of the island of Naxos, in the Cyclades, Greece. The unpaved road is 10.8 km long. The route has humbled many egos. It’s not for the sissies and shouldn’t be attempted by novice drivers.
Located in the far south of the Greek island of Naxos, it can be a reasonably easy drive in favourable dry conditions, but also has the potential to be a very difficult muddy and slippery track -and at times impassable- after wet weather. The trail links the small villages of Agiasos (otherwise spelled Agiassos or Aiyassos) and Kalantos, he southern and most desolated part of the coastal line of Naxos. There are some parts of the route that will test both the strength of the vehicle and yours so if you are not sure about them do not try the route or simply take a just a hike along this road. Hiking this track is very exciting as well! The road never gets crowded, not even during high season. Be prepared, this road is not for the faint of heart or ill prepared. On your route you will find closed gates, open them to pass through but please close them behind you for not allow the goats to go out of their regions.
This is definitely not a Sunday drive. Drive with care as this is a coastal dirt road with dangerous dropoffs. With drops that appear to be hundreds, if not a thousand feet to the side, experienced drivers are the only ones who should attempt this route. You might want to take this into consideration if you have passengers that don't like heights. Ideal road for those who seek isolation. This route is particularly difficult and you will need a vehicle to fully trust and know well, such as a lightweight enduro bike with good off road tires or definitely a real 4×4 jeep (with short gears) and decent dirt tires.
The drive includes some steep sections. The slope is constant and the surface is just endless piles of sharp boulders. The journey offers an exhilarating driving experience, with superb views. An incredible journey, an unforgettable experience. The road offers panoramic views of the woods towards the back side of mount Anathematistra and you have an open view of the Aegean with Small Cyclades, Amorgos and the rest islands of the central Aegean Sea. This is definitely one road trip that you want to record with lots of photographs.
Pic&video: giannis pf